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The state of Alaska is a sportsman's paradise, with over 12,000 rivers and three million lakes, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Catching trout, halibut or other fish in some of the state’s remote regions, like the Kenai Peninsula on the Southern coast, is possible only by float plane, a small aircraft capable of landing and taking off on water. Many tour operators in Alaska offer float plane fishing trips, and participants must take special security precautions to ensure a safe experience.

Basic Information for Float Plane Fishing Trip Participants

Alaska’s float plane fishing season lasts during the state’s weather-friendly months, usually May to September. Although most float plane locations are in remote regions, some of them are highly trafficked saltwater fishing spots. According to Alaska Guide Services (alaskaguideservices.com), many float plane trips visit areas with cabins and other overnight lodging. Residents and visiting fishermen must obtain sport fishing licenses to catch fish for personal use. Anglers can purchase licenses and fish tags online from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (adfg.alaska.gov), by mail or through the licensing office in Juneau.

To ensure the security of passengers, the state of Alaska (adfg.alaska.gov) requires sport fishing companies to obtain an Occupational Business License from the Department of Commerce and Economic Development. Float plane fishing businesses also must purchase liability insurance to cover any incidents that might occur during a trip. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game requires all owners to keep a logbook of fishing services for a calendar year, and to return it to the Department of Fish and Game in a timely manner. Trip guides need valid sport fishing and guide licenses from the state. Float planes must contain safety equipment similar to items included on boat charters. Float plane pilots must follow Federal Aviation Administration (faa.gov) safety precautions for seaplanes.

Pre-Flight Security Instructions

According to Aviation News and Resource Online Magazine (avstop.com), float plane pilots should brief passengers on flight security precautions before take-off. The presentation should include the location of emergency exits and equipment. Each passenger should receive a life preserver and instruction on how to use it. For security reasons, passengers should wear life vests for the duration of the flight. Passengers must learn how to brace themselves in case of turbulence. Pilots should stress underwater egress methods. Transport Canada (tc.gc.ca) recommends keeping eyes open, inflating the life preserver and waiting until water fills 75 percent of the cabin before opening the doors.

Safety Precautions for Float Plane Fishing Trips

Alaska fishing charter companies list security rules for float plane fishing trips along with the descriptions of freshwater fishing for cohos and Dolly Vardens. Alaska Fly ‘n’ Fish Charters (alaskabyair.com) hosts a guided float plane tour of lakes and streams. The guidelines require that participants be able to access the float plane by themselves and walk on uneven ground. Children under 12 aren’t allowed on the trip. Alaska Fly Fishing Adventures (alaskaflyfishingadventures.net), a fishing charter company, offers float plane fishing trips in Kenai Peninsula and throughout South Central Alaska. They recommend passengers bring their own wading boots and chest waders to keep dry and warm while angling for salmon, rainbow trout and Dolly Varden char. To stay safe from the elements while fishing and prevent injury, participants also should bring insect repellent, sunglasses and a hair net.